New initiative under Bursa Smart Moves to build financial literacy while promoting healthy habits among youth. More than 400 students from 12 schools took part in a unique competition pairing Burmon Trader with Pickleball.
Bursa Malaysia Berhad has successfully hosted the inaugural Burmon Trader x Pickleball Competition, a first-of-its-kind youth initiative that pairs financial literacy with the fast-growing sport of Pickleball. Held under the Bursa Smart Moves programme, the initiative brought together students from secondary schools across Selangor, Putrajaya, and Kuala Lumpur to strengthen both financial know-how and a healthy, active lifestyle.
The competition was preceded by over two months of preparation, including Burmon Trader workshops and Pickleball clinics led by experienced coaches. More than 400 students aged 13 to 17 participated in the preliminary rounds, culminating in over 100 finalists across 12 schools competing at the Grand Finale.
Celebrating the Winners
At the conclusion of the competition, the following schools were crowned champions:
- Burmon x Pickleball Champion: SMK USJ 13
- Burmon Trader Champion: Blaiss Yong Pooi Sze, SMK Bandar Utama Damansara 3
- Pickleball Champion: Matthias Evan Lee Mun Hon and Shraavan Mitraan Sri Rajini Kanth, SMK USJ 12
The victories showcased the students’ ability to combine strategic thinking, teamwork, and resilience – qualities equally important in financial decision-making and in sport.
Empowering Youth for the Future
Speaking about the initiative, Stephanie Tan, Head of Investor Strategy and Development of Bursa Malaysia, said: “This competition is more than a sports event – it is a new way of engaging with our youth. By bringing together financial literacy and sport, we are nurturing a new generation of Malaysians who are financially savvy, physically active and are ready to shape their future with confidence.”
Meanwhile, Mohd Sofian Hamzah, Deputy Director-General of the National Sports Council of Malaysia, expressed support on the initiative and said: “The National Sports Council is pleased to be part of this initiative that not only builds character through financial literacy but also champions physical well-being. Bursa Malaysia has set an excellent example of how both financial knowledge and healthy living can be brought closer to our youth – instilling lifelong values of discipline, competitiveness and teamwork.”
To ensure the initiative’s long-term impact and support, Bursa Malaysia has provided participating schools with free access to the Burmon Trader online platform and donated Pickleball equipment. This enables students to continue building financial knowledge and sporting skills beyond the competition.
Bursa Malaysia extends its appreciation to the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Youth and Sports for their support, as well as to all teachers and parents whose involvement contributed greatly to the success of the competition.